7 Best Espresso Machines Under $200 (For 2024)

When it comes to brewing amazing shots of espresso, having your own espresso machine is a good idea.

But confusion arises as the budget comes into the picture.

Where cheaper machines come with several issues like less durability, less customizability, low-quality espresso, etc, the machines with advanced features can cost you a lot.

In this scenario, you need to make a good balance between the price and the features of the espresso maker.

As a barista, I need to have an espresso machine with lots of features as well as high capacity, but if you are seeking it for home use, you don’t need to go for the expensive ones.

And I think you can get a suitable espresso maker without spending more than $200.

In this article, I will list the best espresso machines under $200. Let’s start.

How I Chose These Machines

Let me tell you the ways how I chose these machines for you.

1) Visiting various e-commerce websites including brands’ own website
2) Customer reviews and stars
3) A few of these espresso machines were also tried by me
4) The features these machines have
5) Physical data such as dimension, weight, etc
6) The number of products sold

Things to Consider When Buying Espresso Makers For Under $200

1) Brewing Capacity

When selecting an espresso maker, it’s crucial to consider its brewing capacity. Firstly, determine if the machine can brew single or double shots of espresso, catering to your specific preferences.

Additionally, pay attention to the water reservoir size, ensuring it meets your daily usage needs. A sufficiently sized reservoir reduces the frequency of refills and contributes to a more convenient brewing experience.

2) Pump Pressure

Opting for a machine with the right pump pressure is fundamental to achieving authentic espresso extraction.

Aim for a pump that can generate sufficient pressure, generally around 9 bars, as this is essential for producing a rich crema—the hallmark of quality espresso. Adequate pressure ensures the proper extraction of flavors and aromatic oils from the coffee grounds, resulting in a robust and flavorful espresso.

3) Boiler Type

Differentiate between single and double boilers, considering factors such as heat-up time and temperature consistency during brewing.

A well-designed boiler system contributes to the machine’s efficiency and the overall quality of the espresso. Consider your preferences for quick heat-up times and the importance of consistent temperature throughout the brewing process.

4) Size and Design

The physical size and design of the espresso machine are crucial considerations, especially if you have limited kitchen space. Evaluate whether the machine fits comfortably in your kitchen and aligns with your aesthetic preferences.

A well-designed and compact machine not only enhances your kitchen’s appearance but also contributes to a more enjoyable brewing experience.

5) Ease of Use

Checking the ease of use of the espresso machine is vital for a hassle-free brewing process. Look for user-friendly controls and interfaces that simplify the brewing operation.

Machines with easy-to-understand settings for adjusting coffee strength, grind size, and water volume enhance the overall user experience, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.

6) Cleaning and Maintenance

An espresso machine’s cleaning and maintenance features are crucial for its longevity and continued performance. Ensure that the machine has accessible and removable parts, facilitating easy cleaning.

Check for the availability of cleaning accessories and descaling programs, which contribute to the machine’s overall hygiene and operational efficiency over time.

7) Compatibility with Coffee Grounds

Confirming the compatibility of the machine with your preferred type of coffee grounds is essential. Whether you prefer pre-ground coffee or whole beans, ensure that the machine accommodates your choice.

Additionally, check if the machine allows for adjusting grind size and whether it has a built-in grinder if needed, providing flexibility in your coffee preparation process.

8) Milk Frothing Capability

If you enjoy milk-based drinks such as lattes or cappuccinos, assess the espresso machine’s milk frothing capability. Check if the machine comes with a milk frother or can froth milk.

This feature adds versatility to your brewing options, allowing you to create a variety of espresso-based beverages to suit your taste preferences.

7 Best Espresso Machines Under $200

This latte machine comes with a 15-bar pump system, ensuring the optimal pressure required for extracting rich and flavorful espresso.

The inclusion of a 15-bar pump system is a standout feature, promising a coffee experience that rivals your favorite coffee shop.

This optimal pressure guarantees a well-rounded and aromatic espresso, crowned with a velvety crema for that perfect finishing touch.

One of the standout features of this espresso maker is its automatic milk frother, adding a touch of luxury to your coffee creations.

With the simple touch of a button, the machine effortlessly transforms your espresso into a creamy and frothy cappuccino or latte. This automated frothing process takes the guesswork out of achieving the ideal milk texture, ensuring a consistently delightful beverage every time.

The semi-automatic operation strikes a perfect balance between user control and convenience. While the machine handles essential functions such as brewing and frothing, users have the flexibility to fine-tune their coffee-making process, catering to individual taste preferences.

This makes the espresso maker suitable for both beginners looking to explore the world of espresso and seasoned baristas aiming to perfect their craft.

Navigating the brewing process is made intuitive with the one-touch control panel. Simplifying beverage selection, this user-friendly interface eliminates any potential confusion.

Whether you’re craving a robust espresso, a frothy cappuccino, or a silky latte, achieving your desired beverage is as easy as a touch of a button.

Designed for hassle-free maintenance, the machine features an easy-fill, removable water reservoir. Refilling and cleaning become a breeze, ensuring that your espresso maker is always ready for use.

Additionally, the removable milk reservoir adds convenience to the preparation process, making storage and filling of milk a seamless task.

The 26-inch cord length provides flexibility in placing the espresso maker in your kitchen. Whether you prefer it on the countertop, neatly tucked away on a shelf, or strategically positioned in a specific corner, the extended cord length accommodates various kitchen layouts, offering you the freedom to choose the most convenient location.

It comes with a powerful 19-bar pressure pump system, ensuring optimal pressure for extracting rich and flavorful espresso.

This optimal pressure ensures that your espresso is not only rich and flavorful but also maintains a beautiful crema, capturing the essence of your favorite coffee shop brews.

Navigating the brewing process is a breeze with the one-touch control panel adorned with LED indicators. Offering four pre-made drink selections, including latte, cappuccino, espresso, and frothed milk, you can effortlessly customize your coffee experience with a simple touch.

This intuitive interface is designed to enhance user convenience, making it easy for anyone to brew their favorite beverages without any complexity.

To ensure your coffee stays at the optimal temperature from the first sip to the last, the espresso maker features a heat tray and cup warmer.

This thoughtful addition not only enhances the drinking experience but also highlights the machine’s commitment to delivering consistently enjoyable and piping-hot coffee.

As an all-inclusive package, this espresso maker comes with extra accessories that elevate your coffee-making experience.

The 120V plug-in electric bean grinder allows you to enjoy the freshest coffee grounds for each brew. The high-quality portafilter with single and double shot baskets, a measuring spoon, and a tamper provide the tools for precise and customized brewing.

The set also includes 2 double-walled espresso cups and 2 double-walled cappuccino cups, completing the coffee experience with style.

For the creative coffee enthusiast, the machine includes 16 cappuccino and latte art stencil templates, allowing you to add a personalized touch to your frothed creations.

Thanks to its compact design, you can easily store it even if your kitchen or office area is small.

This machine is equipped with a powerful 20-bar pressure pump, promising to deliver rich and bold coffee flavors. This feature ensures that each cup is infused with the boldness and richness that define a premium coffee experience.

Innovating the coffee-making process, the automatic one-touch espresso and coffee maker combo introduces an intuitive touchscreen.

This streamlined interface enhances user interaction, making the process of brewing your favorite beverages simple and enjoyable. With just a touch, you can navigate through the options and create customized drinks with ease.

The flexibility of this machine is showcased through its double and single-shot options, catering to both solo coffee enthusiasts and those who enjoy sharing their coffee experience.

This thoughtful design allows users to effortlessly make coffee for two or indulge in an extra morning boost, adapting to varying preferences.

To ensure that your coffee stays at the optimal temperature, the espresso and coffee maker combo features a heat tray and cup warmer.

This not only enhances the drinking experience but also reflects the commitment to providing consistently enjoyable and piping-hot coffee.

Operating in semi-automatic mode, this coffee maker strikes a balance between user control and convenience.

It empowers users to fine-tune their brewing process while handling essential functions such as extraction and brewing, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned coffee aficionados.

The integrated milk frother adds a layer of luxury to your coffee experience, enabling quick and easy foam creation for creamy lattes or cappuccinos. This feature allows you to explore a variety of milk-based beverages, adding versatility to your coffee repertoire.

Maintaining the espresso maker is made easy with its self-cleaning integrated function. This ensures that the machine stays in top condition for an extended period, providing durability and longevity. The hassle-free cleaning process contributes to the overall convenience of the coffee maker.

Despite its powerful capabilities, the espresso and coffee maker combo boasts a compact design, minimizing its footprint on your countertop. This thoughtful design choice ensures that the machine seamlessly integrates into your kitchen space without compromising on performance.

A generous 1.8 liters of removable water tank eliminates the need for frequent refills, ensuring a continuous and uninterrupted brewing experience. This convenience feature is especially beneficial for those who appreciate the efficiency of a large water reservoir.

Customizing the strength of your coffee is made easy with the provided coffee filter baskets and measuring scoop tamper. This allows you to tailor your coffee to your preferred taste, providing a personalized and enjoyable coffee experience.

The espresso machine comes with a compact design that is not only visually appealing but also functional, providing an ideal addition to any kitchen.

The easy-to-use control panel, adorned with illuminated buttons, enhances the overall aesthetic while ensuring an effortless brewing experience.

At the heart of this espresso machine lies a high-performance thermoblock, delivering a professional 15-bar pressure for consistently high-quality results.

This robust pressure system ensures that each cup of espresso is brewed to perfection, capturing the nuanced flavors and aromas that define an exceptional coffee experience.

For those who appreciate the art of frothing, this espresso machine comes equipped with a manual frother featuring powerful steam.

This allows users to create a rich and creamy froth, adding a luxurious touch to their beverages. The manual frother provides control over the frothing process, allowing for the creation of evenly textured drinks tailored to individual preferences.

The espresso machine puts you in control of the entire brewing process, from tamping your ground coffee to determining the final quantity.

This level of control empowers users to experiment with different variables, creating a personalized and exquisite cup of espresso every time.

Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a coffee enthusiast exploring the nuances of brewing, this machine accommodates your creativity.

Flexibility in serving preferences is a hallmark of this espresso machine. It can accommodate cups or mugs up to 5 inches in height, catering to various serving sizes.

This feature adds a layer of versatility, allowing users to enjoy their favorite espresso in their preferred vessels.

Ease of maintenance is a key consideration, and this espresso machine excels in simplifying the cleanup process.

The removable water tank, drip tray, and dishwasher-safe parts ensure a hassle-free cleaning routine. This thoughtful design feature adds convenience to the overall coffee-making experience, making the machine a joy to use and maintain.

Enhancing the brewing process, the espresso machine includes a portafilter, a critical component for achieving optimal extraction.

The portafilter, combined with the user-controlled brewing process, contributes to the creation of a rich and flavorful espresso with every cup.

This under $200 espresso maker comes with a package that includes a Manual Espresso Machine, a Milk Jug, and two glass espresso cups, ensuring you have all the essentials for a delightful coffee experience.

The machine allows for the brewing of single or double espresso, cappuccino, or latte, providing flexibility to suit your preferences. The manual frother adds a personal touch, allowing you to customize the foam for a rich and creamy froth in your drinks.

The set of two thermal cappuccino glasses not only enhances the presentation of your beverages but also adds an extra touch of sophistication to your coffee-drinking moments.

Maintaining cleanliness is effortless with the inclusion of a steel drip tray, which efficiently collects excess drips and spills, contributing to the overall tidiness of the brewing area.

The twin brewing cycle is a standout feature, ensuring efficiency by allowing users to brew multiple servings in a shorter amount of time.

The espresso machine is equipped with a versatile 3-in-1 filter holder, accommodating 1 or 2 cups or ESE pods, providing adaptability to various brewing preferences and styles.

Additionally, the convenience of a removable water tank simplifies the refilling and cleaning process, ensuring that the machine is always ready for use.

It comes with a rapid 25-second heat-up time, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite brews without unnecessary delays. The energy-saving automatic shut-off further adds to the efficiency, providing peace of mind and reducing energy consumption when the machine is not in use.

It offers unparalleled versatility, allowing you to brew four different cup sizes at the touch of a button. From 5oz and 8oz coffee to single and double espresso, it even facilitates the creation of iced coffee and lattes, catering to your diverse coffee preferences.

For those who appreciate the art of frothing, the Espresso Master provides the ability to create smooth hot or cold milk froth in just a few seconds.

This feature opens the door to a variety of coffee recipes, letting you indulge in creamy lattes or refreshing iced coffees with ease.

The machine offers a wide array of coffee options with over 30 permanent capsules, ensuring you have ample choices to suit your taste preferences.

The automatic capsule ejection and storage feature enhances user convenience, streamlining the cleanup process after each brew.

With a one-touch brewing system, the Espresso Master simplifies the coffee-making process, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts.

The automatic machine head open/close function adds to the convenience, ensuring a seamless espresso brewing experience.

The Espresso Master goes beyond standard brewing with its automatic adaptation of brewing parameters. This includes brewing time, temperature, pressure, and coffee size, all tailored to each capsule.

This intelligent feature ensures that every espresso shot is brewed to perfection, delivering a consistent and high-quality coffee experience.

It is equipped with a thermoblock fast heating system. This technology ensures that you can enjoy your favorite espresso-based drinks without unnecessary waiting, making it an ideal choice for those who value both speed and quality in their coffee routine.

A 20-bar pressure system takes the brewing experience to the next level by ensuring optimal extraction of coffee flavor and aroma.

This high-pressure system is essential for creating rich and robust espresso shots that capture the nuances of your chosen coffee beans, providing a truly satisfying coffee experience.

For the enthusiasts of milk-based drinks like Latte and Cappuccino, the adjustable steam wand on the SwiftBrew Espresso Machine provides the perfect solution.

This feature adds convenience to your coffee-making routine, allowing you to froth milk to your preferred texture for a creamy and indulgent finish to your beverages.

The cleaning process is simplified with the removable froth nozzle. This thoughtful design feature makes it easy to maintain hygiene and cleanliness, ensuring that your machine is always ready for the next brewing session.

The built-in pressure gauge on the SwiftBrew Espresso Machine displays precise pressure levels during the brewing process.

This visual indicator not only adds a touch of sophistication to the machine but also provides transparency, allowing users to monitor and optimize the extraction process for the perfect cup of espresso.

Adding to its versatility, the SwiftBrew Espresso Machine features a Hot Water Function.

This function is not just for making long black coffee but also serves the practical purpose of warming cups before making espresso. This attention to detail contributes to the overall efficiency and enjoyment of your coffee ritual.

Types of Under $200 Espresso Makers

1) Manual Espresso Makers

Manual espresso makers, often known as lever espresso machines, require the user to manually control the pressure by pulling a lever. While they demand a bit of skill, they provide a hands-on and customizable espresso-making experience.

2) Pod or Capsule Espresso Machines

Pod or capsule espresso machines offer convenience and simplicity. These machines use pre-packaged coffee pods or capsules, eliminating the need for grinding coffee beans or measuring. While some espresso makers in this category can be more expensive, there are affordable options under $200 that provide a quick and mess-free brewing process.

3) Single Boiler Espresso Machines

Espresso machines with a single boiler are a common type in the budget range. They use a single boiler for both brewing espresso and steaming milk. While they may have a slightly longer transition time between brewing and steaming, they are often more affordable and suitable for beginners.

4) Compact Espresso Machines

Compact espresso machines are designed for users with limited kitchen space. These machines are often smaller in size, making them suitable for apartments, dorms, or kitchens with constrained counter space.

5) Thermoblock Espresso Machines

Thermoblock espresso machines use a thermoblock heating system to rapidly heat water for brewing. This type of system can reduce the time it takes for the machine to heat up and be ready for use. While some espresso makers with thermoblock technology may cost more, there are budget-friendly options available that provide efficient performance.

6) Semi-automatic

Semi-automatic espresso machines provide a middle ground between manual control and automation. Users have control over the start and stop of the brewing process, allowing for customization while also benefiting from automated features.

Who should buy espresso machines for less than $200?

Well, anyone can buy espresso makers for this range but I thought to include some of the best scenarios.

1) Budget-Conscious Coffee Enthusiasts

Individuals who are passionate about coffee but are on a tight budget can benefit from them. These machines offer a cost-effective way to enjoy quality espresso at home without breaking the bank.

2) Home Baristas on a Learning Curve

Aspiring home baristas who are still developing their espresso-making skills can find affordable machines beneficial. This range often includes entry-level models with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for those looking to hone their barista skills without a significant investment.

3) Students and Renters

Students and individuals living in rental spaces where kitchen space might be limited can benefit from compact and affordable espresso machines. These machines are designed to be space-efficient while still providing the ability to enjoy espresso at home.

4) Coffee Lovers Exploring Espresso

Casual coffee drinkers who want to explore the world of espresso without committing to a high-end machine can start with a budget-friendly option. These espresso makers provide an entry point for individuals looking to add espresso to their coffee repertoire.

5) Families or Small Households

For households where there’s occasional or moderate espresso consumption, a machine under $200 can be a practical choice. These machines are often sufficient for producing a few cups of espresso per day without the need for advanced features or larger capacities.

6) Gift Seekers on a Budget

People looking to gift an espresso machine without spending a significant amount of money can find suitable options in this price range. It’s an affordable way to introduce someone to the joy of making espresso at home.

7) Individuals Testing Espresso Preferences

If you’re unsure about your long-term commitment to espresso or want to experiment with different brewing styles, spending less initially makes sense. These machines allow you to explore without a substantial financial commitment.

Wrapping up

Here, I have got you covered with the top espresso machines for less than $200.

Having an espresso machine is one of the best ways to brew shots at any time you want but at the same time, you also need to balance between price and features.

All the espresso coffee machines listed here make a good balance between these two. I hope this article helps you choose the right espresso maker without letting you spend more than $200.

FAQs

1) What types of espresso beans should you use in these machines?

The choice of espresso beans for your machine largely depends on personal preference and desired flavor profiles. Generally, coffee labeled as “espresso blend” or “dark roast” is a good starting point. These blends often consist of a mix of Arabica and Robusta beans, providing a balance of flavor and crema.

2) What should be the coffee grind size for espresso brewing?

Espresso brewing requires a fine and consistent grind size to ensure optimal extraction. The recommended grind size for espresso machines is generally very fine, resembling powdered sugar. The fine grind allows for increased surface area, facilitating the extraction of flavors in a short amount of time.

3) What types of espresso machines do coffee shops use?

Coffee shops often use commercial-grade espresso machines that are capable of handling a high volume of orders and maintaining consistent quality. The choice between these types depends on the coffee shop’s workflow and the barista’s preference for control over the brewing process.